Animal Radio Highlights: Recent Episodes
Animal Radio®
Have you ever wondered what kind of breed your dog is? We wondered what breed "Pixel" the Animal Radio Studio Stunt Dog, is. Vet Geneticist Dr. Jenna Dockweiller explains how Doggy DNA tests work, and why some litters have multiple dads. And with her help, we're conducting an Embark DNA Breed and Health Test to learn more about Pixel's heritage and potential health issues. Animal Radio is giving away a free Embark DNA Breed Test. Just email yourvoice@animalradio.com and tell us why you should win the free test, valued at $199.
Our special guest is Francesco Marciuliano. He's the author of the Sally Forth comic strip in over 700 newspapers and a series of pet poetry that he says he transcribed from his cat. Not bad for a kid with a "Bucket List" at ten years old. You'll laugh until you hurt!
Brian Barczyk loves reptiles. He has over 30,000 snakes. Brian breeds them and sends them all over the globe to his snake-lovin' brethren. He's been bit 100,000 times he estimates and his colorful life is ripe for a TV reality series. Are you listening NatGeo? Oh, and no, he's not single. In fact, the chicks dig it.
While Brian tells people he breeds snakes, he actually says he cleans snake poop for a living! He runs one of the world's largest snake breeding facilities, and hatches over 30,000 baby snakes a year! They sell to the beginner hobbyist all the way to the advanced collector. They have snakes as cheap as $25 all the way up to $125,000 a piece.
While Brian doesn't name all of his snakes; he does have two mascots that he has named. One is called Satan and the other is Sunshine. He says they couldn't be more of polar opposites, both good and evil.
Pet ONLY Apartments
Octogenarian and Landlord Judy Guth only allows tenants with pets in her apartment complex. Is this discrimination? Judy doesn't care. And if one of her tenants loses their pet, she'll even take them out to dinner and then the shelter to find another roommate.
Cowboy Poet Veterinarian
The incredibly talented and hilarious Baxter Black is a former veterinarian turned poet, entertainer and philosopher. You will be thoroughly entertained by this odd character and his Turkey tribute. He explains why he gave up doctoring animals for a life of literary virtue.
Cindy Brady Spills It
Susan Olsen (Cindy Brady on The Brady Bunch) is one of the few child actors that DIDN'T cross to the dark side. And in fact, she's a model citizen, animal advocate and foster parent. She seems like a normal gal until she tells you about her hobby making candy-poop with her hands. She'll also divulge behind-the-scenes stories about The Brady Bunch.
Rachel Fuller tells us about her new album and her dogs. Her latest release, Animal Requiem celebrates the life of our furry-friends. Rachel explains how her husband, Pete Townshend called on Paul McCartney to help finish this incredible album.
Can you imagine someone devoting their life to entertaining pets, chaperoning them on dates, and performing marriages and Bark-Mitzvahs for the four-legged. Bring your pets around the radio….Lee Day is gonna sing to them.
Yes, she is the wife of Howard Stern. But more importantly, Beth Ostrosky - Stern is an avid animal advocate. She's fostering a bunch of animals at home. She says Howard is really into her pets and sometimes he'll get very emotional when the animals find homes.
Join us for a special celebration of America's favorite and longest-running pet show. Animal Radio looks back at the last 20 years with guest appearances by Actor Ed Asner, Dog Wig Maker Ruth Regina, The Monkees' Davy Jones, Comedian Paul Reiser, Actor Dick Van Patten, Singer Donny Osmond, and a final bow from Vladae The World Famous Russian Dog Wizard, Dog Trainer Alan Kabel, News Director Lori Brooks, Executive Producer Judy Francis, Groomer Joey Villani, Veterinarian Dr. Debbie and your host Hal Abrams.
Zoologist Lucy Cooke says humans aren't doing animals any favors when we moralize their behavior. Humans have gone to the Moon and split the atom, but when it comes to understanding animals, we've still got a long way to go. So you've probably never considered if moose get drunk, penguins cheat on their mates, or worker ants lay about. They do - and that's just for starters.
CBD's, or Cannabidiols are derived from the hemp plant and there's anecdotal evidence that it may help pets suffering from many problems, including, and certainly not limited to, anxiety, allergies, seizures, hot spots and so much more. The landscape is confusing though. Many retailers are hopping on the bandwagon. While there are honest merchants, there are also many that rely on the lack of certification to sell their CBD products. Medical Cannabis Expert Angela Ardolino will help you parse through the misinformation and select a product that can help your pet live a healthier and happier life.
Actress and singer Doris Day died recently. Doris was a huge animal rights activist and also co-owned one of the most pet friendly hotels on the planet. In 1978, she founded her own organization, the Doris Day Animal Foundation and later started the Doris Day Animal League, which has since become part of the Humane Society. She also founded the Duffy Day Lifesaving Program, which focuses on older dogs who need medical attention in order to maintain a healthy life. Doris Day was a guest on Animal Radio and we take a moment to reflect and listen to her guest spot.
Last year, a majority of Americans reported experiencing stresses "during a lot of the day," according to Gallup's recently released Global Emotions Report. Sadly, we're global leaders in feeling agitated - there are only three countries in the world that are more stressed out than the United States. But according to American Humane CEO Dr. Robin Ganzert there's scientific evidence of an antidote - a healthy dose of pet love. To remedy some of the anxiety plaguing America, individuals should cultivate and nurture bonds with animals.
Usually humping is associated with male dogs, but humping is also very common amongst female dogs. Some girls will hump toys or other objects, some hump air, others hump other dogs or even people. We talk with Certified Professional Dog Trainer and Chair of The Association of Professional Dog Trainers Nick Hof, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, KPA-CTP, CSAT, to answer some of your most commonly asked questions about female dogs and humping.
New research highlights potential risks in being over-affectionate with our pets by increasing the risk of catching drug-resistant illnesses. While experts acknowledge and even encourage the bond between a pet parent and their fur kids, some are now recommending limits on physical interaction. The danger is posed by the transfer of antibiotic-resistant bugs and carries a risk for humans and animals alike.
Ok, I know what you are thinking. If they are pets they are certainly legal. Well, that's not necessarily the case depending on the state or city that you live in. There can be legal issues for having common pets that exist in different states or cities.
Let's start with Ferrets. In several states and large cities (Including California, Hawaii, New York City and Dallas to name a few), ferrets are illegal and if caught, you could face fines up to $200K or even prison time. That's right, ferrets; the court jesters of the animal world, filled with curiosity and enough cuteness to power any world are illegal in certain places. Some states allow you to have them as pets, but require additional filings and you must meet certain requirements.
Next up is Gerbils. If you are in California, you may be surprised to know that your state does not allow gerbils as a pet as they are deemed to pose a threat to the eco system. These tiny palm-sized pets are common household pets in many areas of the U.S. as they are easy to care for and handle, while also being social creatures.
Next is the Hedgehog - No, I'm not talking about the video game version but the super cute, albeit very spiny hedgehog. These fascinating and easy to care for animals have very simple needs and are quite adaptable. They are interactive, yet, if handled improperly can use their quills to get their point across. Yes, I went there. The bigger concern is that there are certain states and municipalities who deem them illegal as pets and/or have severe restrictions including California, Georgia, Hawaii, Pennsylvania and more.
Let's not forget that there are number of fish and snakes that are also illegal to own in various states through the United States. It is remarkable the variety of these species that are found legally in the homes of people in some states, while not allowed in the homes in other states.
Finally, I would be remiss, to not bring up the troubling movement to ban certain breeds of dogs and cats in cities and states across the country. From Bengal Cats to Pit Bull Dogs, traditional pets are increasingly under the scrutiny of the legal system.
While this list could go on for many days, I bring it up as a reminder that while you have rights, states and cities have laws. I'm not saying these laws or regulations are right or wrong. I am saying consider this when you are looking at adopting a new animal family member and remember that you are responsible to know the laws where you live in regards to your animal family members. Don't make the mistake of assuming anything or you may find yourself in big trouble and your pet confiscated or worse.
Dr. Stanley Coren is back on Animal Radio to give us specific and detailed instructions on how to make our dog laugh. Don't be a skeptic until you've heard about the research. Some breeds are more likely to laugh than others. Dr. Coren will share the science behind dog laughter and other body signs.
If you don't kiss your dog, but your significant other has a beard, heads up! A new study finds men with beards carry more germs in their beards than dogs with their normal germs. Swiss researchers tested the facial hair of men and dog fur from various breeds and found a significantly higher bacterial load in the men's beards compared with the dogs' fur.
Scientists estimate as many as 97% of seniors suffer from behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia. That's why Tom Stevens teamed up with Jim Henson's Creature Shop to create an affordable robotic puppy to provide companionship for seniors. Tom explains why this is so personal and how it's making a difference.
A lawsuit has been filed in a California court saying Bark Adoptions masquerades as a non-profit animal rescue organization passing off puppy mill dogs as rescued animals and selling them for a profit. California has banned the sale of puppy mill dogs and it is believed multiple fictitious rescues are circumventing the law. Deborah Howard, founder of the Companion Animal Protection Society (CAPS) explains how her organization is trying to raise awareness on the issue.
Dogs are capable of laughing, and they typically do so when they are playing. Canine laughter begins with the doggy equivalent of smiling but also includes a sound that is much like panting. Animal behaviorist Patricia Simonet recorded those sounds while dogs played. On analyzing the recordings, she found that they involved a broader range of frequencies than regular dog panting. So, what makes a dog laugh? What can we do to make them laugh? Are they already laughing about us behind our back? We'll try to figure out what tickles their funny bone.
Steve Munt wants to send the cremains of his beloved cat into space. While dog lovers have been memorializing their dogs this way for years, Steve's cat will be the first feline remains shot into space in a satellite that will circle the earth in perpetuity. Steve is our guest and he'll explain why he wants to do this.
The extremely talented and very funny author, Dave Barry is our guest. He'll tell us about the lessons he has learned from his dog, Lucy. He says Lucy taught him to effectively deal with road rage. Dave also explains why he's not much of a cat fan.
Kelly Matthews has granted her first interview to Animal Radio to talk about breaking-up dog theft rings. Her business, CritterCops.net locates stolen and lost pets. Up until now, she's feared going public because of retribution from thieves she's exposed. She'll tell us what it's like tracking down stolen dogs.
Are our dogs trained to show affection in order to get food and treats? Do they really unconditionally love you, or would they "kick you to the curb" for bacon? Animal Researcher Marc Bekoff answers these burning questions and more. He says we can 'unleash our dogs,' metaphorically speaking, by allowing them to roll in dead worms.
Photojournalist Ross Taylor's latest project captures the last moments between humans and their pets prior to euthanasia. Admittedly a difficult subject, he explains his mission as a guide to assist those going through this process.
Michelle Gaylord tells us how she organically grew her business into a celebration of the lives of pets. From the simple pendant that contains cremains to wine glasses made with your pet's ashes, she'll talk about some of the more unique ways people have chosen to memorialize their pets.
Rover.com and the WAG app have come under a lot of criticism lately for their transparency about several pet deaths. We speak to attorney Robert Tauler who is currently suing former Baywatch actress Angelica Bridges and Rover.com for negligence. Apparently the actress was the pet sitter during an incident with the plaintiff's dog.
Born with Muscular Dystrophy, Tabitha Bell was told she would need a wheel chair by the time she was 12. Instead, she got a balance & brace service dog. The human/dog partnership was so successful that she decided to start her own non-profit to help match service dogs with those that may not be able to afford the $10,000 entry level. Tabitha tells us that she's working on matching a 6-year old diabetic with a dog that can alert someone when blood sugar spikes.
Emmy Nominated TV host Rocky Kanaka is on a mission to find hard-to-adopt rescue dogs their forever home - all while creating a day of fun doggie activities most could only dream of. He chronicles his adventures in a You Tube series called 'Dog's Day Out.'
Have you ever considered quitting your stupid job to become a pet-sitter? Laura Vorreyer shares stories about her bustling Los Angeles dog-walking business. She'll share some strange pet-sitting stories and dole out advice for the aspiring pet-sitter.
Allan Dixon won the best job in the world. He gets paid to take pictures with animals. Allan has an uncanny ability to 'talk' animals into posing for a selfie with him. This might sound like the most privileged, millennial job in the world, but Dixon worked for this role. He'll explain to Animal Radio listeners.
From Caped Crusader to Canine Crusader
Actor Burt Ward was the original 'Robin' on the hit series Batman. Now he’s devoted to giant breed dogs and runs the Gentle Giant Rescue. He tells Animal Radio that as many as 25 Great Danes share his bed with him and his wife Tracy.
Apiculturist Dr. Norman Gary has devoted his 83 years to bees. He's even trained them for TV and Movies. Dr. Gary holds two Guinness World Records for bee stunts. Oh, and he plays the clarinet... covered in bees.
Gideon Kidd has a goal to pet a million dogs for his pet project. So far, the 10-year-old boy has pet more than 750 dogs. He's chronicled his journey on Twitter, garnering over 160,000 followers. He'll tell us how it's going since we last spoke to him in June.
Shortly after Rosemary Marchetto's Shih Tzu was dropped at a chain store groomer she was informed that her dog had died. She feels the groomer was negligent and that the profession needs regulation. Bijou's Bill, named after Rosemary's dog, is being spearheaded by New Jersey Senator Valerie Huttle. The law would require pet groomers to be licensed, at least 18 years old, and tested by the State Board of Veterinary Examiners. Rosemary joins us this week to tell her story. Animal Radio's Joey Villani is also on the forefront of this groundbreaking legislation and he says there is some push-back from many groomers.
It's not uncommon to see dogs or cats being used at major airports as a de-stressor. When you step off a plane in New Orleans, you'll meet an alligator. While these alligators aren't necessarily intended to provide emotional support, they are ready to take a selfie and be petted. Director of Communications at the airport, Erin Burns joins us to explain this unique partnership with the Audubon society.
When someone you love is terminally ill, you may do whatever you can to make the little time left count. Attleboro Massachusetts Mayor Paul Heroux took his dying dog Mura on a cross-country bucket-list trip. He says "Filling up my gas tank: $40. Staying at a sketchy hotel: $60. The look on Mura's face after she just ate a nasty freeway gas station hot dog: Priceless." The animal friendly politician has also gone to far lengths to make his government workplace a pet-friendly environment.
'Katfish,' the 200-pound PET alligator that was forcibly removed from his home, is now being represented in court by Tristen Woods and Lauren Sierra. The alligator's owner, Sean Casey fed Katfish a diet of chicken nuggets from Wendy's. Tristen and Lauren explain the situation and what the future holds for the reptilian.
Denise James loves animals. She also loves talking about them.... a lot! Her love for dogs was not soured when she was bit in the face by a pit-bull. She'll tell us what went wrong and how to avoid being a dog treat.
Opossum guardian and advocate Lea Murray is mother to several opossums, including Kricket, the Fruit Loop eating marsupial in this viral video. Lea is outraged about a recent Inside Edition broadcast that painted Opossums as a typhus vehicle. She says the much maligned and misunderstood critter is actually good for humankind.
Leanne Lauricella gave up her NYC corporate job, traded in her Mercedes for a pickup truck, and decided to care for handicapped goats. She'll never look back! She says it was the best decision ever. She has taken-it-up a level by integrating her love for goats throughout social media. The Goats' newfound online fame landed them on Rachael Ray. Leanne has even published 6 books.
Postdoctoral Scholar Dr. Sarrah Dunham-Cheatham randomly sampled 100 pet foods. 16 of those samples had mercury concentrations that were well above the maximum tolerable limit. That's not the only thing she found.
Front man for the band Bad Company, Free and The Firm, singer, songwriter Paul Rodgers is an extreme supporter of our four-legged friends. Aside from the 6 cats and a dog at home, he sponsors moose, bears, coyotes, foxes, a lynx, a bobcat and raccoons. "Supporting animals, in any way that one can, restores the soul," say Rodgers. His wife and obvious muse, Cynthia joins Paul for this interview.
From the author of Does It Fart?, comes the latest from Nick Caruso, True or Poo? The Definitive Field Guide to Filthy Animal Facts and Falsehoods. This interview is not for the faint hearted. You'll find out just how many spiders you eat in your sleep, if beaver butt is an ingredient in vanilla ice cream, and which animal may die from constipation.
In a world where we barely have time to prepare our own meals, Dr. Judy Morgan says we should be cooking for our pets. The store bought pet foods contain diseased and euthanized animals as well as high levels of heavy metals. She'll have some time-saving tips to create your own pet food.
World Renown Anthropologist Dr. Jane Goodall tells us about her experience growing up around chickens and chimps. Even today she still lectures, with over 300 speaking engagements a year. Dr. Goodall also has her hands in the deodorant business, lending her name to environmentally friendly, cruelty-free and sustainable products.
Microbiologist and TV Host Jennifer Gardy has been collecting cat poop as part of a biome-mapping project. Viral sensation Lil Bub even donated a sample that led to the discovery of 22 new microorganisms. Jennifer will explain what that means to you and me.
Singer, songwriter and actress Sheena Easton provides one of the most memorable celebrity interviews on Animal Radio. Sheena is cra-cra about her kitties, no holds barred when she divulges how she spoils her cats and dogs.
The Senior Veterinary Toxicologist at the Pet Poison Helpline wants you to know what household toxins can fatally sicken your pets. Dr. Ahna Brutlag warns that pesticides and bait traps can kill more than bugs and mice. She also says even pet safe anti-freeze can be harmful.
Brian Jones is a self-proclaimed audio-psychic. He tapes animals, including dogs and cats, and slows the tape down to reveal words. He believes the animals are trying to talk to us and we need to listen. We'll let you be the judge.
In 2012, Bart Jansen's cat was unfortunately struck and killed by a car. Instead of cremating or burying "Orville" (named after the Wright Brothers), he turned him into a drone. Despite outrage from cat-owners, he defends the action as a tribute to his furry-friend. Many other pet owners have asked for his services since. Now he plans to turn a cow into a helicopter.
There's no need to over-inoculate your pet with potentially harmful vaccines. Dr. Jean Dodds is considered one of the foremost veterinary experts on vaccinosis. She tells us what injections are necessary and how often. Dr. Dodd's also discusses the downside of over-vaccinating your pet.
Olaf Danielson has made a hobby out of birding without any clothes. Olaf is an author, religious scholar, storyteller and adventurer. He will share some of his favorite stories of seeking out rare and exotic avian wildlife... while naked as a jaybird.
Iconic Actor Ed Asner is our flashback to 2010. Bet you didn't know Ed is a "cat" guy? His satirist banter and love for his personal kitties makes this one of most memorable moments of Animal Radio.
"Unattended pets often set their homes on fire and pets can't call 911," according to Zsolt Sapy, the COO of Smoke Alarm Monitoring. Just how does this happen? What can you do to stack the odds in your pet's favor?
Dr. Lisa Moses says there is a place for DNA tests, but only as a novelty. While these tests may show a predisposition towards breed specific diseases, she warns against making medical decisions based on a DNA swab or blood tests.
A Wisconsin man made headlines after a dog lick led to a rare infection resulting in the amputation of part of his legs and arms. This has set off unwarranted alarm. While the bacterium is extremely common in dogs and cats, the risk posed by being licked is infinitesimally low.
The KONG is the most ubiquitous dog toy in existence. The name KONG has become a part of the vernacular, just like Kleenex and Band-Aid. So, you'll be quite amused when KONG creator Joe Markham tells us how the toy was invented by accident. Joe also says he's sold enough KONGs for every dog in America, twice. This is the last installment in the Fear Free Expert Series.
Scientific American Senior Editor Josh Fischman translates the results from current research on the brains and neurons of cats, dogs, raccoons, bears and humans. You may be surprised by the results. Cat lovers - brace yourself.
Fiona Gilbert has Multiple Sclerosis. a degenerative neurological condition that affected her ability to walk. Without her service dog, she cannot function or work. The only problem is that Koda, her service animal is a pit-bull mix. As a frequent flyer on Delta Airlines, she is no longer welcome because her service dog is banned on the carrier.
Kelly Lund and Loki, his Husky - Wolf mix, didn't intentionally become a viral Internet sensation. Kelly casually posted a picture on Instagram that was picked up by Reddit, Bored Panda and Buzzfeed. Now Loki has a half-million followers and a new book. Kelly will give us tips on making your pet a star.
If Rebecca Eyre gets her way, you'll never again see a dog tied up outside a retail or food establishment. She says "Dogspot," a climate controlled parking spot for your dog, is being rolled-out across the country. Using the smartphone app, you'll gain access to a safe and secure dog locker fitted with UV lamps and cameras. So many questions, so little time.
What happens to your pet if something happens to you? Did you know your pet is considered "property" in the eyes of the law? Estate Attorney A.J. Fudge has prepared a simple plan for your pets should you punch the clock before they do. It's important to have a pet-trust legally documented so that your furry-family member doesn't end up in the shelter and possibly euthanized.
Have you seen you pet twitch, move or mumble while they sleep. Could they be dreaming? Harvard Professor and Dream Researcher Dr. Deirdre Barrett shares what she knows about pet dreams.
Model Summer Rayne Oakes dispels common stereotypes. A Cornell graduate in Etymology, she has no problems feeding her best friend live meal-worms, something that would make most models squirm. Of course, her best friend is a chicken named Kippy. The two are inseparable. You might see them together on a N.Y. Subway. Kippy has even appeared in several photo shoots.
Julie Baker accidentally started a chicken clothing company by making fashionable-looking diapers for pet chickens - but now her company, Pampered Poultry, has gone on to add tutus, sweaters and dresses. She earns about $50,000 yearly.
Puppies sold in pet stores, most of which are sourced from puppy mills, are often accompanied by soaring sticker prices. To make the puppies appear more affordable, private lending companies are offering leasing plans. Miss a payment and they can repossess your pup. Bill Ketzer, from ASPCA Government Relations, is asking lawmakers to end this predatory practice.
Gideon Kidd has a goal to pet a million dogs for his pet project. So far, the 9-year-old boy has pet more than 360 in his Iowa hometown. He's chronicled his journey on Twitter, garnering over 90,000 followers. He'll tell us why he's doing this.
Psychological Scientist Dr. Clay Rutledge believes young adults may be bonding with animals at the expense of vital human relationships. While the Animal Radio team may be divided on the health aspects of loving your pet "too much," there is one empirical fact; some of us have trouble prioritizing humans over animals.
It wasn't an easy task for pet advocate Mirah Horowitz. She explains how she managed to convince Southwest Airlines to donate a round trip flight to rescue animals from hurricane stricken Puerto Rico. The pilots and flight attendants all donated their time, unpaid for this jaunt to America's own third-world territory. The government has done little to restore power and clean water to 60% of the island. The animals are suffering. This rescue flight helped many dogs and cats to escape the damage ravaged island.
Buying a pet at a pet store can end up costing twice what it says on the price tag if you are lured into signing a pet-leasing contract. Pet leasing has been drawing scrutiny from lawmakers and animal welfare groups since last year highlighted many consumer complaints against Reno, Nevada-based Wags Lending, which pioneered the practice of loans to lease pets. And if you stop making payments, the company has the right to take your animal back and ding your credit score.
The TrapKing Sterling Davis spreads the word about Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR) and his approach to educating and engaging different demographics while ending the "crazy cat lady" stereotype! "Gotta let the fellas know, you don't lose cool points for compassion."
Even the most grounded person can be devastated by the loss of a pet. Dr. Guy Winch is an authority on broken-hearts and has answers to common questions following the death of a pet. He says you should avoid the 5 common mistakes when grieving the loss of a pet, including not getting rid of reminders like feeding bowls and leashes and feeling guilty about getting another pet.
Clinical Forensic Psychologist Dr. John Huber culled research indicating that, given the choice, we prefer puppies over people. Respondents to a recent survey are significantly less distressed when adult humans were victimized, in comparison with human babies, puppies and adult dogs.
Dr. Con Slobodchikoff (Professor Emeritus NAU) believes we are close to developing a gadget that will translate what your dog or cat is saying into English words. While several novelty items are currently on the market, his work is based in science. Slobodchikoff says "So many people would dearly love to talk with their dog. With cats, I'm not sure what they'd have to say. A lot of times it might just be 'you idiot, just feed me.'"
Jaclyn Bowen of the Clean Label Project is back to explain why our pet's food supply is constantly jeopardized. What are the implications of the Blue Buffalo's sale to General Mills? You should listen before you shop for pet food again.
As much as it can irk cat people, studies show people with dogs are thought to be more approachable, happier and more empathetic. For men, there is also the chick magnet effect. But why is that? Dr. Helen Fisher a longtime relationship researcher who also consults Match.com says people are attracted to dog owners because, "It says you can care for a creature, that you can follow a schedule and get home to feed it, that you can walk it and love it and spend time with it." Nearly 33% of respondents said they had been "more attracted to someone" because they had a pet. 66% of respondents said they would judge their date based on how he or she responded to their own pet.
Vance County North Carolina Animal Control Officer Chad Olds discovered a new use for his incredible singing skills. He's able to quiet the barking a several dozen dogs by playing guitar and singing to them. The shelter videotaped one of his sessions. The video went viral and adoptions increased.
As hard as it may be to believe, doctors are human too. An anonymous veterinarian confesses to the mistakes he/she made in their practice. Common errors include forgetting to take out an IV catheter to leaving a thermometer in. Listen as Dr. Debbie comments on these FAILS.
We remember the bold seafarers of yore, from Magellan to Shackleton, for their extraordinary exploits; New lands discovered, storms weathered, and battles won. But somehow history has neglected the stalwart, hardworking species who made it all possible ... yes, the noble cat! Philippa Sandall joins us from down-under to describe these under appreciated sea-furring felines.
Dr. Helen Fisher is a Senior Research Fellow at The Kinsey Institute. She's been studying the correlation between pets and dating. Dr. Fisher says, "Dogs are chick magnets!" Women find men with a dog to be more attractive. But interestingly, or not, this does not work in reverse. In fact, the 'cat lady' has a negative stigma.
The little known insurance company would've sunk into obscurity if it weren't for the marriage to the iconic television programming it hitched its name to. Marlin Perkins and his monkey hosted the Sunday evening tradition. The show lives on today as a web series hosted by this week's Animal Radio guest, Peter Gros. Peter talks about several harrowing experiences filming wild animals, including chasing a 12-foot python through the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in Manhattan.
For 30 years, legally blind from birth, Stephen Kuusistos went about his daily business as if he had 20/20 vision. He even drove bikes and motorcycles. But his life changed dramatically when he met his first service dog, Corky. This dog assisted him and even taught him some valuable life lessons.
Actress Natasha Lyonne (Orange is the New Black) is our guest. She divulges her obsession with "Root Beer," her Maltese/Poodle mutt. Natasha joins Will Arnett, Stanley Tucci and Shaq for the new movie Show Dogs. She says it's much easier to work with dog actors than human actors.
An Iowa man's dog shot him while the two were playing together. They were roughhousing on the couch when the large mixed breed dog bounded back up on the sofa, somehow disabling the safety on the gun, which the man had in his belly-band. The dog then stepped on the trigger, hitting the man in the leg. After the gun went off, the dog knew it was no longer playtime because he laid down beside his owner and cried because he thought he had done something wrong.
Dr. Jeremy Turner, Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience at Illinois College, studies the sounds that humans can't hear, but that may be loud and clear, and maybe even annoying to your pets. Dr. Turner says the proliferation of electronic devices introduces un-heard noise that can actually stress our furry companions.
Many of us have stories of being bit or attacked by companion animals. Some careers are inherently vulnerable to attacks, like veterinarians and postal carriers. USPS Carrier Ramiro DeMarco talks about dogs, cats and snakes that have 'gone postal.'
Here's a story you don't hear very often. Jeanna Smith got her pet tortoise during the Kennedy administration, and it might still be alive for the Bieber administration. Not many people live most of their life with their childhood pet.
Scientist and researcher Frank Rosell joins us live from Norway to talk about our pet's incredible nose and smelling capabilities. He'll explain why your friend's dog is "all-up-in-your-business" and just how far and how much our dog can smell stuff. They can even smell cancer.
Bobbie Jo Abrams doesn't mind the camels in her kitchen or sloths in her living room. And she rather enjoys the kangaroos hanging onto her. Her new TLC hit series, Our Wild Life, is causing a lot of chatter about the 81 mostly exotic animals she shares her house with. She explains how she pays for her bizarre pet collecting habit.